Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI)
What is SUDI?
SUDI stands for sudden unexpected death in infancy. Each year about sixty babies die a SUDI death in New Zealand. Most happen in the first 6 months of life (80%), with under 3 months being the highest risk period. SUDI is the term now used to describe all sudden unexpected deaths of babies.
SUDI is a problem of development
The first six months of life are critical for all babies as they adjust to life outside the womb. Placing babies face-up (on the back) to sleep is essential to their survival through this critical stage.
The main risk factors for SUDI:
- sleeping in an unsafe environment
- unsafe sleep positioning
- exposure to tobacco smoking during pregnancy or after birth
Essential protection
Babies needs a package of care to protect them from SUDI. Every baby needs this care every time and in every place they sleep for their first six months. See the safe sleep formula below.
Sleep safe formula: safe sleep = face-up + face clear + smokefree
6 ways to keep your baby safe from SUDI
Safe Sleep Space Includes a bassinet, moses basket, cot, wahakura or pepi-pod. Bed sharing increases the risk of SUDI by 5 times.
Safe Sleep Surface A firm flat mattress which fits snuggly into the frame of the bed. Place your baby’s feet at the bottom of their bed.
Safe Sleep Environment Aim to room share for the first 6 months. Sleep space is clear - 50% of babies who died from SUDI did not have their face clear when found. Wait until 8 months before introducing a small comfort item. Use wraps and sleep sacks instead of loose blankets. Move to a sleep sack when baby shows signs of rolling over.
Placed to Sleep on their Back Keeps their airways clear and prevents suffocation from the mattress. Babies can remain on their front if they moved into the position themselves, but always place on their back to sleep.
Avoid Overheating Keep the room cool (18-20 degrees is ideal) and baby dressed appropriately to prevent the risk of overheating. Dress baby in natural fibers (like cotton and merino), be careful not to overdress. Leave hats and beanies off for sleep.
Support Breastfeeding (in any amount) and using dummys/soother both help protect against SUDI.